Toronto: A Catholic university in Canada is preparing to open a new institute dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of the late Pope Francis, with a focus on leadership, dialogue, and service to society.
St. Jerome's University recently announced the creation of the Pope Francis Institute, believed to be the first institution of its kind in the world devoted entirely to the pastoral and intellectual vision of the late Pontiff.
The new institute will officially begin its activities later this year and will offer courses, lectures, retreats, and formation programmes inspired by the teachings and priorities of Pope Francis. Organisers say the project aims to continue the Pope’s emphasis on compassion, social justice, care for creation, and engagement with the modern world.
Dr Peter Meehan, President of St. Jerome’s University, said Pope Francis possessed “deep pastoral instincts” and had a unique understanding of both the Church and the challenges facing contemporary society.
According to Meehan, the late Pope strongly embodied the vision of the Second Vatican Council, especially its call for greater dialogue and openness with the wider world. He noted that Francis consistently spoke about migrants, environmental protection, and the need to welcome people from every background and orientation.
Meehan described Francis’ message as one that answered the needs of the present age and said the new institute hopes to ensure that this vision continues to inspire future generations.
The Pope Francis Institute will be based within St. Jerome’s University in Ontario and plans to host conferences, public discussions, and spiritual retreats. It will also provide academic opportunities, including a Certificate in Catholic Leadership programme. The university also hopes to appoint full time research fellows as the institute expands.
Meehan stressed that the institute’s mission will not be limited to Catholics or the academic community. He said a Catholic university has a responsibility to serve society in the same way a Catholic hospital serves all people regardless of background or belief.
While supporting the life of the Church will remain an important goal, Meehan said the institute will consider itself truly successful if it is also able to attract people from outside the Catholic faith.
The initiative has also gained renewed energy following the election of Pope Leo XIV, who has continued emphasising themes that were central to Pope Francis’ pontificate.
Meehan pointed to Pope Leo’s strong focus on synodality and the implementation of the reforms of the Second Vatican Council. He noted that the new Pope has already dedicated several catecheses to reflecting on the major documents of the Council.
Those same themes, Meehan said, will shape the identity and mission of the Pope Francis Institute as it begins its work later this year, continuing a legacy that sought to build dialogue, understanding, and service both within the Church and beyond it.